Great idea, Greg. And, as you know, I'm a big fan of the Wimco/Sibarth group -- highly professional people with, in my long experience, unquestioned integrity.

To start the ball rolling, I'd ask . . .

Attributes of the West side of the island (Anse des Cayes, Flamands, Colombier, Corossol) vs. East side (Lorient, Marigot, Cul de Sacs, Toiny, Saline, & Gouverneur)?

I know that both offer their "charms," and I have a distinct preference for "East." Nonetheless, it's always interesting to read the posts of friends and others whose opinions I respect when they describe their preference for the "other" side of the island!

To me, that question breaks down in a different way - sunrise or sunset? While there are exceptions, and some that have both, I think of villas on the East end of the island as sunrise villas, and those on the West end as sunset villas. But perhaps my view is too simple. I'm interested in seeing the Wimco response.

Good analysis, Second Star. I hadn't thought of a distinction in sunrise / sunset terms. I simply find that I do more "things" on the East side of the island. I do, however, find the other side to be quieter.

I personally think focusing on an area limits client's and what house could be right for them, especially someone that has not been there before. After all, St Barths still is only 8 square miles of heaven.

there is such diversity for such a small island. I stayed in Toiny overlooking petite cul de sac my first time on the island (sib ble) and loved it - the open spaces, quiet, great views. Then I was way up in the hills above st jean beach - great central location, different views, perhaps my favorite villa (sib bba with two pools). Then it was on to columbier (sib teo)- very cool views of gustavia, arriving planes, minutes form town. I guess I like being "above" gustavia - I guess that is to the east. Feels like you can get around more easily from there, easier access to beaches and fun places to eat.

Skeeter -- I agree that the Columbier area is a great place to be. In January '06 we stayed in a villa Wimco called SIB ING (also known as Mirador), which looks straight down into the harbor and has the planes landing right in front of you. Very cool. And it was also very affordable.

I love Columbier too. It's much more convenient than people think. Villa ING is currently undergoing a major renovation. I believe it'll be done in 2008 - I'm thinking spring perhaps? It'll be great when it's done as the view there is so stunning!

We wondered why it wouldn't come up on the Wimco website. Guess it's because of the renovations. Did it sell?

Also, now that I think of it and have you here, Bethany, what happened to two villas we stayed in and can't find on the Wimco site any more? DEV, a beautiful place up in Vitet and the first villa we stayed in, and JBA, another gorgeous place in Lurin, no longer appear on the site. Do you know what happened to them?

DEV came off a while ago. I think it may have been rented long term. It was a great house but a hard sell due to the remote location. JBA - loved it and was sad it came off. The owner blocked it out for a year due to construction close by and it never came back on the list. I think the owner lives in it now. What a great spot, so close to town and great views without the feeling of anyone around.

ING was not sold. It is the same owner doing the renovations.

Are you all set for your next trip? I'll be on the island from Aug 15 to 18. I'm planning to see a lot in a short period of time. Should have some good "scoop" upon my return.

Valid point of view, soleil. On the other hand, friends of mine who have a restaurant in Gustavia and live in Toiny always drive home at night over the Lurin hill, Petit Saline, and Grand Fond because they think there are too many "crazies" on the road through St. Jean, Lorient, Marigot!

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